Fifty Pence 2019 Victoria Cross - Heroic Acts (NCLT), Coin from United Kingdom - detailed information

The British fifty pence (50p) coin - often pronounced as "fifty pee" - is a unit of currency equalling one half of a Pound Sterling. It is a seven-sided coin formed as an equilateral-curve heptagon, or Reuleaux polygon - a curve of constant width, meaning that the diameter is constant across any bisection. This shape, which was revolutionary at the time of its introduction, makes it easily distinguishable from round coins both by feel and by sight, while its constant breadth allows it to roll in vending machines.

The first UK Fifty Pence coin was issued in 1969 with the classic Britannia reverse design by Christopher Ironside, which was superseded in 2008 by the Matthew Dent design for circulation coins.The denomination is also extensively used to issue circulating commemorative coins.

Beginning in 2009, the Royal Mint started issuing 50 pence coins for collectors - such as this one - which are not meant to be released in circulation, so are classified as Non-Circulating Legal Tender (NCLT).

The original Fifty Pence Victoria Cross - Heroic Acts coin was issued in 2006 as a circulating commemorative to mark the 150th anniversary of the Victoria Cross - depicting the "Heroic Acts" of those awarded with it.

The Victoria Cross is the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy. All who have received it have shown extraordinary bravery, many at the cost of their own lives. The original idea for the Victoria Cross was proposed by the Duke of Newcastle in 1854 and the Royal Warrant for the creation of the medal was signed by Queen Victoria at Buckingham Palace on 29 January 1856. To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the institution of the Victoria Cross The Royal Mint struck two fifty pence coins (another coin celebrates the Victoria Cross Award itself).

This coin is part of the 50 years of the 50p - Brilliant Uncirculated Coin Set - Military, a 5-coin set featuring 50 pence designs on a military theme to commemorate 50 years of the denomination.

No 2019-dated coins of this type were released into circulation.